WHATS THE BIG DEAL ABOUT MATS?
We acknowledge that some dogs do get tangled and matted due to their lifestyle and whilst we offer grooming and styling to breed standard, we do not have miracle tools that remove matts without causing any pain. It is very painful and stressful for dogs to be put through the process of trying to comb out matts and in view of this we reserve the right to either decline a matted pet for grooming or offer a clip off only service. Yes the coat will be short but it will grow back and can be re-groomed in the appropriate style at the dogs next visit as long as it has not been allowed to get into the neglected condition again.
Often people obtaining a puppy/new dog are not aware of how much time and care is required to properly maintain their chosen breed. Matted dogs are unhappy dogs.
The dog may chew, dig at themselves and suffer greatly if the mats are not removed. Mats can become so tight it can tear the skin and cut blood circulation off to areas that are affected. Matting can also restrict the dogs movement, creating a veritable straightjacket. Some dog owners think that because the dog is chewing and scratching there must be a flea or skin problem.... but not always, many problems can result from or be aggravated by the presence of mats. Mats will also hide other problems, sores, infections, cuts and maggots often result from un-maintained coats.
The most common places for mats to form are:
Behind the Ears
The neck where the collar sits
In the armpits and the crotch area
Why did my dog become matted? Put simply the dog’s coat has not been properly cared for. Many dog owners do not take the time to maintain their dog’s coats. Often they do not understand or have not been advised how to properly comb and brush their dog. Combing and brushing needs to be done on a regular basis, and the dog should be taught from puppy hood to accept grooming as part of its daily routine. A dog cannot brush himself or herself, and home care is a part of the responsibility one accepts when owning a companion animal.
Matting is Painful! Imagine how your head would feel if your hair was matted. Imagine trying to brush those mats out. Now imagine how your dog feels. But on dogs, the matter is worse, as mats occur in the groin area, in armpits, around tails - all areas that move when the pets move, and the hair is constantly being tugged - ouch! Dog’s skin is just as sensitive as our own skin.
What if I can't get the mats out? If the mats are not brushed out before they become too tight to remove safely, they will eventually become an extreme health hazard to your pet. In the worst case, the mats can seriously damage the skin. Wetting the pet will just make it worse, and the mats will weave tighter and pull harder on the skin. The only humane way to remove mats at this stage is to have the pet shaved. Even then, the pet will be at risk from clipper irritation and possible nicks from the clipper blades as mats are usually very close to the skin. This is especially dangerous for puppies. NEVER try to remove mats yourself with scissors, as the skin can easily be accidently cut.
Fleas and ticks can hide under matted coats making their extermination almost impossible. If the mats cover the 'private' areas, urine and faeces will be pressed against the skin or stick in the coat, causing further irritation and possible infection.
The animal welfare act states that it is an offence to cause animals pain or discomfort and we reserve the right to refuse to do anything we think may be detrimental to your dog’s well-being.
CREDT/DEBT CARDS WELCOME
Telephone 01283 761941 for an apppointment
